A method for side effect reduction in the use of statins via physiologically synthesized glutathione

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally the use of certain compositions, e.g., compositions comprising a glutathione precursor and a selenium source, in the therapy of subjects suffering from diseases associated with hyperiipidemia and / or hypercholesterolemia. Related embodiments of the present invention relate to treatment and / or reducing the incidence of the side effects of statin therapy comprising administering to a subject in need, a composition comprising a glutathione precursor and a selenium source. Embodiments of the invention also relate to the use of the compositions in combination therapy with other agents such as statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, bile acid binding resins, or fibrates. In other embodiments, the invention relates to the use of such compositions comprising the glutathione precursor and the selenium source in the therapy of subjects suffering from erectile dysfunction and / or viral diseases such as Ebola virus disease (EVD) or Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application contains subject matter which is related to the subject matter of the following applications, each of which is assigned to the same assignee as this application. Each of the below listed applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:[0002]Provisional Patent Application 62043854 filed on Aug. 29, 2014.TECHNICAL FIELD[0003]Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to the use of certain compositions, e.g., compositions comprising a glutathione precursor and a selenium source, in the therapy of subjects suffering from diseases associated with hypertriglyceridemia hyperlipemia, and / or hypercholesterolemia. Particular embodiments of the present invention relate to treatment and / or reducing the incidence of adverse side effects of statin therapy comprising administering to a subject in need, the aforementioned compositions. Embodiments of the invention also relate to the use of the compositi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent relates to the use of a combination of a glutathione precursor and a selenium source to reduce the adverse effects of statin therapy and to treat hypertriglyceridemia, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, and low density lipoproteins. The use of this combination can allow for a lower dosage of statins and reduce the risk of adverse side effects. The glutathione precursor and selenium source can also be used separately or simultaneously with other treatments such as statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, bile acid binding resins, or fibrates. Overall, this invention provides a beneficial adjunct therapy for statins and offers an alternative to reliance on statins.

Problems solved by technology

Continued and prolonged use of statins is known to give rise to potentially serious side effects.

These effects can be disabling and may last for the duration of the causative drug treatment or even after the drug treatment is complete, affecting not only an individual's capacity to work but also perform the simple tasks involved in day to day life.

Some types of cardiovascular disease such as coronary heart disease (CHD) or stroke occur acutely and are associated with severe consequences, including death.

Although cholesterol is an essential component of a healthy functioning body, being required for the formation of functional membranes, steroid hormones and bile acids, excessive levels, particularly when associated with low density lipoproteins (LDLs), constitute a health risk.

In situations of excessive blood cholesterol levels, cholesterol is gradually deposited on the artery walls together with other fats, resulting in plaque build-up which disrupts the free flow of blood, with potentially severe results.

However, there are a number of potentially serious side effects associated with statin therapy, including diabetes, rhabdomyolysis, headache, joint pain, fever, muscle pain, back pain, abdominal cramping, sleep disorder, rhinitis, sinusitis, stimulation of coughing reflex, dizziness and fatigue.

In severe cases, these symptoms may lead to the undesirable cessation of the vital therapy.

The risk of adverse side effects during treatment with the statins is increased with concurrent administration of certain other drugs, such as cyclosporin, fibric acid derivatives (e.g., GEMFIBROZIL), erythromycin, niacin or other antifungals.

However, as a precondition for such a financial commitment, the Universities had to convince themselves with vigorous investigation on Pat.